Believe it or not, but 40% to 60% of women and 15% to 30% of men worldwide suffer from varicose veins, according to the Indian Journal
of Surgery, Clinical's presentation of Varicose Veins. The 2021 findings point out that varicose veins are a growing concern. This condition is often characterised by dilated, twisted and enlarged veins that result due to a loss of efficiency in the valves of the veins. The valves that usually prevent blood from flowing backwards get damaged due to various reasons - blood clots or pools in the veins, causing them to enlarge, dilate and even hurt.
Women vs Men
“Varicose veins are more common in women than in men,” says Dr. Ashutosh Kharche, MBBS, MD and a practising Neurovascular consultant from Mumbai. He shares how women seem to be at a higher risk due to the pregnancy phase they tend to go through. Dr Ashutosh adds, “During pregnancy, the volume of blood in your body increases to support the growing baby. This in many ways can enlarge the veins in the legs.”
Another concerning area could also be a lifestyle lacuna. A growing number of women are on hormonal pills or contraceptives. This, in many ways, serves as another good reason for an increase in predilections for varicose veins among women. Aadults in their 40ths, 50ths and 60ths are more prone to having their valves weaken, losing strength and elasticity. With the hereditary component being one of the many contributors here.
Bursting Myths
While varicose veins are a common problem, there are myths associated with it that go far and wide. Dr Achintya Sharma, Senior Consultant and In-charge, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at Max Shalimar Bagh speaks of a few of these myths in regards to the cosmetology, treatment, causes and prognosis of varicose veins in general. Dr Achintya opines that many people think of varicose veins as a cosmetic problem. He shuns such beliefs and speaks of how spider veins, a smaller and thinner version of varicose veins, may be cosmetic. However, varicose veins do not fall under that bracket and can negatively impact one’s health if neglected for too long. He adds, “Seeking timely treatment for varicose veins, doesn’t just improve its physical appearance. It also alleviates painful or uncomfortable symptoms as well.”
While treatment is readily available many still believe that these are conditions that can seldom be treated. Dr Achintya says, “Cutting-edge technology has made varicose veins highly treatable.” Surgery too, isn’t always the answer when it comes to varicose. Treating varicose veins typically also depends on the severity of the condition along with the symptoms involved. While most cases may require minimal treatment, only a few need dire surgical processes.
Earlier, invasive ‘vein stripping surgery’ was the primary treatment. Today, procedures are faster with little to no lingering discomfort. “Varicose veins are the result of weak or faulty valves within your veins,” says Dr Achintya. This is usually caused due to inactivity which increases the pressure within veins that cause it to enlarge and hurt. Many believe that varicose veins cannot be prevented. This may not be entirely true if one dives into healthier lifestyle habits- inclusive of a nutritious diet, regular exercising and a complete ‘No’ to tobacco or nicotine consumption.
Treatment Options
Common treatment options can range from simple exercising to weight management to medications or laser treatments. One among the many effective treatments here is the Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) which uses laser energy to seal off larger varicose veins and is minimally invasive.
Dr Ashutosh shares that the success rate of EVLT is 97.2%. “Patients can happily walk back home the same day free from varicose veins,” he adds. Exercising can help improve mobility in terms of varicose. The calf muscles usually serve as active 'pumping machines' that help circulate blood up from your feet and legs right to your heart. Regular exercising helps and aids in this circulation. It also prevents excessive weight gain. Dr Ashutosh adds, “Exercise won’t entirely cure varicose veins, but it surely helps improve symptoms.”
Varicose veins seem to be an alarming concern. Perhaps a little bit of lifestyle changes along with caution seem to be the need of the hour!
Healthy Tips
• Maintain a healthy weight to improve blood flow and ease pressure on veins
• Regular exercise, walking or jogging makes leg muscles contract, improving blood flow
• Avoid standing or sitting for longer periods
• For Women- Avoid wearing high heels for a long stretch at once
• Quit tobacco/Smoking as you are more susceptible to developing varicose veins irrespective of age
